A Roma Loss to Milan Could Clinch Juventus Scudetto This Weekend

Apr 24, 2014 10:48 AM EST

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In the words of famous famous '80s band, Europe, "It's the final countdown." Four match weeks remain. Juventus are still 8 points clear. How has Juventus accumulated this many points so far in the season?

If Roma draws Milan tomorrow, that single point will put Roma at their highest point total ever. Higher than when they lifted the scudetto 12 years ago. The scudetto, or league title, has avoided Roma's grasp for the past decade, while dubiously stronger rivals, like pre-calciopolo Juventus, and post-calciopolo Inter Milan, ruled the league.

A slight of hand would be needed to snatch the victory Juventus has gripped so hard all season, and replace in Juve's hands a flaming bag of defeat. There are 12 possible points remaining for Juventus and Roma each. Roma would need to claim all 12. Juventus would need to drop 8, and then more.

Because Juventus beat Roma in Turin earlier in the season, by a score of 3-0, Roma would need to overcome that head-to-head deficit.

The odds are completely against Roma. Rudi Garcia has refused to acknowledge the odds. For Garcia, the race is still on, and anything can happen. Stranger things have happened in the world of football."I still believe in the scudetto. Anything is still possible."

Milan previously hosted Roma on December 16, where the affair ended in a 2-2 draw. Destro and Strootman scored for Roma, but both will be out for their rematch. For Milan, Zapata and Muntari contributed goals, but it's expected that they too will look for goals from other players.

AC Milan have won 7 straight under Milan legend and current gaffer, Clarence Seedorf. Milan has accomplished this without the help of Stephan El Shaawary, who injured his foot in December. El Shaawary looks to return against Roma on Saturday.

Mario Balotelli and Kaka' have found improved form under Seedorf's guidance, with both of them producing top shelf performances.

On the Roma side, Mattia Destro will sit out due to suspension. Destro's contributions over the second half of the season have been decisive in Roma's push for the league title, and Roma will need to find a way to win without him.